The Indigenous People of Biafra has argued that the Federal Government’s cross-appeal in the case involving its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, raises fresh questions about the legality of his conviction and the jurisdiction of the trial court.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group claimed that issues raised in the appeal process could have significant implications for both Kanu’s case and Nigeria’s criminal justice system. IPOB argued that the Federal Government had effectively acknowledged flaws relating to the trial court’s jurisdiction.
The group maintained that jurisdiction is the foundation of every criminal proceeding and cannot be separated into different stages of a trial. According to IPOB, if a court lacked jurisdiction at the sentencing stage, the validity of the conviction itself could also be challenged because both processes are legally connected.
IPOB further argued that the Court of Appeal would need to determine whether Kanu’s conviction can stand in light of the jurisdictional issues raised during the appeal process.
The separatist group also alleged that the trial was affected by procedural irregularities, including the use of repealed laws, denial of fair hearing, failure to disclose applicable statutes and the withholding of evidence. It contended that these issues collectively undermined the legal basis of the conviction.
IPOB said the outcome of the appeal could influence future criminal prosecutions in Nigeria, particularly on matters relating to jurisdiction, fair hearing and constitutional rights. It called on legal practitioners, diplomats, human rights organisations and the international community to closely monitor the proceedings.
Kanu is facing terrorism-related charges linked to the activities of IPOB. In 2022, the Court of Appeal discharged him after ruling that his rendition from Kenya to Nigeria was unlawful, but the Supreme Court later overturned that decision and ordered the continuation of his trial. He was subsequently convicted and remains in custody at the Sokoto Correctional Centre.
